He inspired students to explore their interests and pursue them with determination , urging them not to be deterred by obstacles along the way . Learning about ICON ’ s sustainability practices and their commitment to affordability was invaluable for students .
Lastly , students rounded out their trip at Oracle . The Vice President of Sales , Emerging Katie Kriete , shared an informational day in the life of a postgraduate sales role and her experience as a female in a traditionally male-dominated industry . Smith and Kriete inspired our female students with wisdom about their humble beginnings and corporate success . Senior Madeline Drape said , “ It was extremely empowering to hear from women who are not only successful in their roles but also deeply care about investing in the next generation of leaders . It was incredible to meet so many women in leadership , not just at Oracle but also at Dell and ICON .”
After touring headquarters , students ate lunch in the Executive Briefing Center alongside Senior Vice President of Corporate Marketing Jennifer Smith and Senior Manager of Global Campaigns Ren Slater . At lunch and in the session afterward , Smith shared Oracle ’ s 360-degree approach to marketing and the importance of storytelling and relationship-building in brand strategy .
“ Everything Smith shared proved what we ’ ve been learning in Business Foundations and Marketing . Relationships are key , and people will remember how you made them feel ,” says Maggard . “ Furthermore , our God is a relational God — the greatest storyteller of all . I hope to teach students that our relationships are an outpouring of the love and richness of God , not for our glory , but for His . As they step out into the world , it ’ s my hope they live transformed by His truth for His glory .”
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